Pupils listened in awe to a Paralympic wheelchair rugby player as he spoke about his life before and after his disability and, of course, the London Olympic Games.

Team GB Paralympian Andy Barrow addressed pupils from years seven to 11 during an assembly at Robert Clack School, Dagenham.

The murder ball player discussed his successes as an athlete but also the struggles he went through to achieve them after an accident left him paralysed.

A spokesperson for the school said: “Our children were enthused by Andy’s will power and determination to go and achieve their dreams despite what hurdles life would throw at them.

“He was able to provide us with an insight into the Olympic village, the roars of the crowd, the feeling of being part of the GB team.

“We clearly have a great role model in Andy and are very grateful for his time and the positive message that he sent out during his session.”

The talk was held last month just a week before a cheque for £1000 was presented to former Mayor, Cllr Anthony Ramsay, toward the his chosen charity, St Francis Hospice, at a ceremonial event on April 30.